Scripture References:
st. 1 = Ps. 23:1-2
st. 2 = Ps. 23:3
st. 3 = Ps. 23:4
st. 4 = Ps. 23:5
st. 5 = Ps. 23:6
Of all metrical versions of the psalms, this versification of Psalm 23 from the 1650 Scottish Psalter is probably the best known. Though one of the best examples of a Scottish psalm in meter, the grammatical structure of the text is twisted for the sake of rhyme – the mismatch of textual and musical phrases is especially problematic in stanza 1. But the rugged strength of the verse and the powerful imagery of this psalm have endeared this Scottish versification to many believers through the centuries. For further commentary on this psalm see PHH 23.
Liturgical Use:
See PHH 23.
--Psalter Hymnal Handbook, 1987
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The Lord's my Shepherd, I'll not want, p. 1154, i. The text quoted is from a copy of Rous's 1643 edition in the library of Elham Church, Kent.
--John Julian, Dictionary of Hymnology, Appendix, Part II (1907)
